How Hunting Blinds Work

The key­ to using a hunting blind is to find a proper location. Placing a big contraption out in the middle of an otherwise empty field will be quite obvious. You also need to consider the natural behavior of targets.

When you are choosing a location for your blind, try to place it where animals will naturally wander in search of resources. Look for:

­It is also helpful to look for bedding areas and travel routes. Ask the locals where they see deer or turkey wandering on a regular basis. You can find a travel route on your own by looking in the right places, such as creek bottoms, the edges of forested areas or areas where two types of vegetation meet.

Once you are ready to set up, try to clear the area of anything that might unexpectedly move or snap. Remove weakened branches and large piles of brush and leaves. Then set your blind so that it's at the optimum range for your hunting weapon of choice. For rifles, you'll have roughly 300 yards of range; for bow hunting, about 30 yards [source: Hunting Blind Plans].

Inside the blind, there are several more factors you need to consider:

Think about the wind direction. Your scent will carry in the breeze, so try to position yourself out of the wind.

Don't open your window openings all the way, and stay back from the windows as much as possible. Also, remember that your body can create a shadow. Targets might see your shadow inside the blind, so try to be still as much as possible.

If you don't want your blind to be permanent, you're going to have to take it with you when you go. Read on to learn about transporting hunting blinds.

Rules and Regulations

Be sure to check with your local Department of Natural Resources about hunting blind rules and regulations. Some states require you to attach orange material (or some other identification) to the blinds or remove the blinds after you're done. [source: River Valley Outdoors].